Little Hands, Big Lessons About Change
By Ms. Sheeza Khan
Early Years Educator
Some teachers look for inspiration in books, but mine walked right into my classroom — all three of them, each barely three years old.
This week, I welcomed three new toddlers, and in just a few hours, they managed to teach me more about life than I could have imagined. One of them, just 2 years and 8 months old, was stepping into school for the very first time. Instead of hesitation, he arrived with a sparkle in his eyes, exploring the classroom like a little adventurer on a grand expedition. Every corner, every toy, every new sight was a discovery worth celebrating. And the way he stayed close to me, as if we had been friends forever, reminded me that sometimes the best connections don’t take time; they just happen.
The other two brought their beautiful lessons. One is pure sunshine, happy, easygoing, and quick to make himself at home anywhere. He showed me that joy and openness are powerful tools for finding comfort in new places. The third is more disciplined and observant, the kind of child who watches, understands, and only then steps forward. From her, I learned the value of patience and intentional action. Their little personalities couldn’t be more different, yet each one fit perfectly into the day, just like puzzle pieces finding their place.
Currently, our school is undergoing a significant transition, merging two branches, welcoming new faces, and navigating the disruptions caused by construction. I will admit, I felt nervous about it all. But these three little “teachers” showed me that whether you dive in headfirst, ease in with a smile, or step in carefully after observation, every approach can lead to belonging. Change, I realized, becomes easier when we enter it with an open heart, ready to learn from whatever or whoever it brings our way.
Sometimes, the smallest hands hold the biggest wisdom, and I am lucky enough to hold theirs back. 💛